I’ve read some of the negatives about this ship but we were pleasantly surprised. Don’t take any notice of the whingers! It’s not ‘old’; it’s well maintained, spotless, and very comfortable. We chose this cruise because it sailed out from Greenock in Scotland and we were visiting Scotland from Australia at the time. We chose a cabin on Columbus deck and were pleasantly surprised to find our cabin had two big square windows looking out over the deck outside, and clear views to the sea and land. The cabin was an adequate size for the two of us. Embarkation was brilliant - it took us less than 15 minutes to check in, our luggage was whisked away, and we were shown to our cabin.The international crew were fantastic: friendly, helpful, interested and hard working. We loved every aspect of the Marco Polo - the meals in both the Bistro and the Waldorf Dining Room were excellent with a huge variety to choose from. Our wine waiter at dinner was knowledgeable & friendly. So what if the bacon was tough! There were plenty of other things to choose from. Apart from looking at the view, and relaxing on deck, there weren't many planned activities during the day. It would have been good to have daily yoga or fitness classes for those of us who like to participate. Frilly scarf making, jewellery making, quizzes and Bingo were mostly the only activities. Art classes would have been great every day rather than only occasionally. The shore excursions were quite expensive. We chose only the Flam Railway tour and could have done that ourselves by buying tickets at Flam Railway Station. Other than that, we did our own excursions on shore by foot. We had some wonderful dinner companions each night and all enjoyed each other's company. The Greek Captain mingled with the passengers every day, and invited my husband up onto the bridge one morning which was a highlight. The after-dinner shows were entertaining and lots of fun. The entertainment group were an energetic young group of very talented singers and dancers and we enjoyed their slick performances. The crew worked hard, as a well-oiled team, and everything ran to clockwork. All in all it exceeded my expectations and we had a wonderful 9 days. Can't wait for the next one! Read Less

Tried a Fred Olsen cruise purely because it left from Greenock. Had an enjoyable time. The cabin a balcony suite was excellent, clean, spacious and an added bonus we could smoke on our balcony. Must be the only cruise line which allows this. The service and staff were brilliant. The food a bit too fancy for our basic taste as we don't eat fish or game but what we ate was well presented and always hot. The entertainment is poor and excursions too expensive hence my 4 star assessment. The itinerary was okay some destinations are very remote and if you don't want to go on an organised trip there isn't much to do ashore, however, the scenery is fantastic. I would definitely recommend taking the all inclusive drinks package it cost us £10 pppd and saved us a fortune. Would cruise again with Fred Olsen and wish there could be more cruises from Scotland. Read Less

I had never cruised on my own before, though I had cruised with my husband before he passed away. This was my first experience with Fred Olsen. I can honestly say that I enjoyed every minute. From being greeted at Greenock, to leaving the ship after 8 days, I felt safe and well cared for. The crew were friendly without being familiar, The ship was immaculate, and the food was delicious at every level, from formal dining to casual coffee breaks. The activities and entertainment .... super! The tours were well arranged, and the guides knew their stuff. I enjoy my own company at times, and there were ample places to sit and read if I felt like it. Perhaps i should add that I met a new friend on the cruise, and we will keep in touch. I was apprehensive about going solo, but am so glad I took the plunge! I shall be cruising with "Fred" again! Read Less